In a triumphant championship game in downtown Cleveland, Kamilla Cardoso once again proved pivotal for Dawn Staley and South Carolina, solidifying their status as national champions. With an impeccable performance, the Gamecocks sealed their dynasty, downing Caitlin Clark and Iowa one year after the Hawkeyes ended South Carolina’s season in the national semifinals.
Cardoso contributed 15 points and a career-best 17 rebounds propelling South Carolina to an 87-75 triumph over the Hawkeyes. The relentless Gamecocks (38-0) etched their names in history as the 10th Division I team to complete a season without a single loss, an achievement that was unexpected, after South Carolina lost all five starters from last season’s team.
Clark’s efforts to lead the Hawkeyes to their first championship were on display early as she poured in 30 points, including a championship-record 18 in the first quarter, rewriting Iowa’s record books as the NCAA Division I career leading scorer with 3,951 points.
South Carolina’s dominance under Staley’s leadership solidified their claim as the latest dynasty in women’s basketball, with Staley joining an esteemed group of coaches with at least three national championships.
With a formidable roster set to return next year, South Carolina’s reign shows no signs of waning. Led by Staley, the Gamecocks are poised to continue their extraordinary run, buoyed by their unwavering belief and unparalleled depth.
